This is my second season with the Montpelier and I have tried different things to maximise heat output! This works really well!
Lay one split along the back east west. Then lay splits resting on top of that split north south so that the ends rest on top of the front brick just behind the end irons. This will leave a gap below the splits were the air enters the fire box! When reloading push coals to the rear then reload splits in the same north south fashion! One end resting on the coals and one end resting on the front fire brick!
Just be careful It burns much hotter so adjust air control properly!
Lay one split along the back east west. Then lay splits resting on top of that split north south so that the ends rest on top of the front brick just behind the end irons. This will leave a gap below the splits were the air enters the fire box! When reloading push coals to the rear then reload splits in the same north south fashion! One end resting on the coals and one end resting on the front fire brick!
Just be careful It burns much hotter so adjust air control properly!